Connectomics: Sebastian Seung vs. Tony Movshon, Columbia 2012

Does the brain's wiring make us who we are?
Neuroscientists Sebastian Seung and Anothony Movshon debate minds, maps, and the future of their field.

Moderated by Robert Krulwich and Carl Zimmer
Introduction by Stuart Firestein

Columbia University
April 2, 2012

Hosted by Neuwrite

• Category

  Science & Technology

[Josh Bowdridge]

Very interesting and relevant discussion, thanks for posting!

[Josh Bowdridge]

Then you may not have a full understanding of how vast the connections in the brain really are. The main argument against this project is that it may not be the most effective use of federal funding because it will be very difficult to make sense of the results. How are we to interpret the vast amount of data that comes out of this project? Since you're so quick to dismiss Ming Li's comment, I would assume you have a strong understanding of how this data should be analyzed.

[Callum Hackett]

I think there was a little too much underestimation of the audience in this - they wouldn't be there if they didn't want interesting details; a proper debate like this shouldn't be an arena for the dumbed down stuff you find in print and online journalism. That radiolab guy was especially patronising.

[MoarPewPewPlz]

Is that...an Evangelion shirt...?

[jane parr]

Sebastian is very sophisticated

[Deborah W Halasz]

"the best lay"! LOL

[Deborah W Halasz]

Thank you for this reference! I'll definitely check it out!

[Deborah W Halasz]

Was there a transcript of this 2nd debate? Or audio? Thanks!

[piggylove5]

They did a round 2 debate in front of fellow prominent neuroscientists in Aspen and it was much much more entertaining! Too bad they didn't film it, but after frivolously criticizing the connectome so many people were converted and recognized its value. Seung wins!